McCormick Ranch stands as Scottsdale’s first and most enduring master-planned community, representing over 50 years of thoughtful development and community excellence. As an Associate Broker with West USA Realty, I’ve had the privilege of helping countless families discover the exceptional lifestyle that this historic community continues to offer. From its pioneering beginnings in the early 1970s to its current status as a mature, thriving neighborhood, McCormick Ranch has consistently set the standard for quality living in Central Scottsdale.
What began as the 4,236-acre working ranch of Anne “Fifi” Potter Stillman McCormick and her husband Fowler McCormick, president of International Harvester and grandson of Cyrus McCormick and John D. Rockefeller, has evolved into one of the largest and most successful planned communities in the nation. When Kaiser-Aetna purchased the ranch in July 1970 for $12.1 million, it represented the country’s largest single piece of property sold for a master-planned community within city limits.
Today, McCormick Ranch encompasses 3,116 acres and serves as home to approximately 24,000 residents across seven square miles, stretching from Indian Bend Road north to Shea Boulevard and from Scottsdale Road east to Hayden Road. This remarkable community continues to attract new generations of residents while maintaining the founding principles of luxury, leisure, and community connection that have defined it for over five decades.
The history of McCormick Ranch begins with the remarkable Anne McCormick, who along with her husband Fowler McCormick, established their winter retreat in 1943. The ranch initially served as a working cattle operation and later became famous for Arabian horse breeding. The 80-acre Paradise Park hosted the first Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show in 1957, which grew from 200 entries to over 1,000 until it relocated to WestWorld of Scottsdale in 1978.
The McCormicks’ vision extended beyond their private ranch to benefit the entire Scottsdale community. In 1967, they donated 100 acres of land to the City of Scottsdale, with 30 acres specifically designated for what became McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. This beloved attraction, created by Guy Stillman (Anne’s son and Fowler’s stepson), opened in 1975 and remains one of Scottsdale’s most popular destinations, featuring vintage locomotives, a working carousel, and extensive model railroad displays.
When Kaiser-Aetna acquired the property in 1970, they brought a revolutionary approach to community development. Working with master planner George Fretz, formerly Scottsdale’s City Planner, and the renowned planning firm Gruen Associates of Los Angeles, Kaiser-Aetna created a comprehensive master plan that integrated residential neighborhoods with recreational amenities, business centers, and natural spaces.
The development began with infrastructure and amenities, establishing the foundation for what would become a self-contained suburban paradise. Richard F. Boultinghouse served as General Manager and was responsible for overseeing the real estate development that would transform this desert ranch into one of Arizona’s most desirable communities.
McCormick Ranch features more than 60 distinct subdivisions, each offering something different in terms of location, architectural style, and lifestyle amenities. The community’s architectural diversity reflects a thoughtful blend of Spanish Colonial, Mediterranean, and Contemporary Southwest designs that have been carefully maintained through the oversight of the McCormick Ranch Property Owners’ Association (MRPOA).
Heritage Village, built by Golden Heritage, exemplifies the community’s variety with three distinct phases. Heritage 1 features single-family homes with a 7,000 square foot size limit built between 1980-2000, while Heritage 2 and Heritage 3 contain patio and townhomes averaging 1,900 square feet, all with access to community pools and spas.
Playa Del Sur, constructed by Camelot (Hancock) between 1980-1988, contains 98 homes averaging 2,800 square feet, surrounded by miles of greenbelt pathways. Paradise Park Trails represents one of the largest subdivisions with over 275 single-story homes ranging from 1,700 to 5,800 square feet, featuring work from multiple respected builders including Cavalier, Camelot (Hancock), Tarantini, Gateway, and Golden Heritage.
McCormick Ranch is one of the few places in the Phoenix area to offer true waterfront living, with numerous homes positioned around the community’s seven man-made lakes totaling 130 acres. Camelback Lake and Lake Margherite are designed for fishing and sailing, with some lakefront homes featuring private boat docks.
Golf course properties throughout the community provide spectacular views of the McCormick Ranch Golf Club‘s Palm Course and Pine Course, both designed by renowned architect Desmond Muirhead and opened in 1972. These properties range from golf course condos and villas to luxury estates positioned along the tree-lined fairways.
The McCormick Ranch Golf Club features two distinct 18-hole championship courses that have been open to the public since 1972. The Palm Course and Pine Course offer breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain and the McDowell Mountains while combining well-manicured resort-style layouts with pockets of desert infusion.
These tour-tested, amateur-approved courses provide challenging play for golfers of all skill levels, with multiple membership options available to residents and visitors. The golf club includes comprehensive practice facilities with a driving range, two chipping areas, and one of Scottsdale’s largest putting greens. The facility operates 365 days a year and hosts hundreds of charitable, corporate, and professional golf events annually.
One of McCormick Ranch’s most distinctive features is its position along the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt, a 20+ mile engineered park and trail system that runs through the heart of the community. This innovative flood control system, stretching from Shea Boulevard to Tempe Town Lake, transformed what was once a serious flooding hazard into one of Arizona’s top urban green spaces.
The 11-mile multiuse path features more than 24 grade-separated crossings, allowing uninterrupted travel for cyclists, joggers, and walkers. The greenbelt connects numerous parks, lakes, and golf courses while providing a lush, tree-lined corridor that makes McCormick Ranch feel like an oasis within the Sonoran Desert.
The community features multiple City of Scottsdale parks that serve residents’ diverse recreational needs. Mountain View Park, a 30-acre facility, offers extensive green space, playgrounds, a community center with after-school activities, multiple sports fields and courts, and direct access to the Indian Bend Wash path. The park includes a 12-station exercise course, picnic areas, and well-maintained pathways perfect for walking, running, and biking.
Comanche Park provides 11 acres of quiet, neighborhood-focused recreation with well-kept pathways and multiple entry points. Shoshone Park and Zuni Park add to the extensive park system that makes McCormick Ranch feel like one continuous recreational area.
Chaparral Park, located just minutes south of McCormick Ranch, spans 100 acres along Hayden Road and features open green space, playing fields, walking trails, a 10-station exercise course, a covered playground, Scottsdale’s most popular dog park, a swimming pool, a community center, fishing and boating lake with pier, and numerous other amenities.
McCormick Ranch’s extensive bicycle path network includes over 25 miles of paved, tree-lined trails that wind throughout the community. These paths connect seamlessly with the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt, providing residents access to the broader Scottsdale trail system and connections to Camelback Park, Indian School Park, Osborn Park, and El Dorado Park.
The flat terrain and widely paved trails welcome cyclists of all skill levels, from leisurely family rides to serious fitness training. Rides N Motion, located within McCormick Ranch, offers electric bike and scooter rentals perfect for exploring the shady pathways and discovering the community’s many amenities.
McCormick Ranch is served by the highly-rated Scottsdale Unified School District, consistently ranked as one of the best performing districts in Arizona and ranking fourth among the state’s 115 public school districts. The district receives a national grade of A for overall excellence, with specific A grades in academics, teachers, and college preparation.
The district serves over 22,000 students across 36 elementary, middle, and high schools, maintaining a student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1. Scottsdale Unified students significantly outperform national averages, achieving 63% proficiency in both math and reading compared to national averages of 34% and 35% respectively.
Pueblo Elementary School serves the community with an impressive A rating from Niche, providing exceptional K-6 education with comprehensive programs and excellent facilities. Students then progress to highly-rated middle schools including Mohave Middle School, which boasts an A rating and features an award-winning robotics program that demonstrates the district’s commitment to STEM education.
Saguaro High School completes the educational journey with another A rating and Cognia accreditation. The Saguaro Sabercats have won more than a dozen state championships, demonstrating excellence in both academics and athletics. Students who take the ACT college admissions test score an average of 28, significantly higher than the national average of 20.6.
Additional school options include Cochise Elementary School, Kiva Elementary School, Cocopah Middle School, and Chaparral High School, all providing excellent educational opportunities for families throughout McCormick Ranch.
Scottsdale Community College is located just minutes away across the 101 Freeway, providing convenient access to higher education, continuing education programs, and community activities. The college’s proximity makes it an excellent resource for both students and adult learners seeking to advance their careers or explore new interests.
Paseo Village Shopping Center serves as one of McCormick Ranch’s primary retail destinations, featuring essential services and popular dining options. The Vig offers Southwest cuisine with a full bar in a relaxed atmosphere perfect for both casual meals and business meetings. The center also houses various salons, fitness facilities including LA Fitness, and professional services that meet residents’ daily needs.
McCormick Ranch’s central Scottsdale location provides convenient access to the Valley’s finest shopping and entertainment venues. Scottsdale Fashion Square, just 15 minutes away, features luxury shopping with recognizable brands including David Yurman, Louis Vuitman, and Zara beneath stunning vaulted glass ceilings.
The Pavilions at Talking Stick offers additional shopping and dining options, while the nearby Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community features Talking Stick Resort and golf course, Salt River Fields (spring training home of the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies), OdySea Aquarium, and Butterfly Wonderland.
Topgolf, located across the 101 Freeway, provides state-of-the-art entertainment with three stories of climate-controlled hitting bays, dining, and social activities perfect for family outings and corporate events.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, created through the McCormicks’ generous land donation, remains one of Scottsdale’s most beloved attractions. The 30-acre park features vintage locomotives, a working carousel, extensive model railroad displays, and the Paradise & Pacific Railroad that provides rides around the park. This living memorial to railroading history attracts visitors from around the world and serves as a cornerstone of community pride.
Great Wolf Lodge, located nearby, offers a massive indoor water park that provides year-round family entertainment, making it a favorite destination for residents and visitors seeking to escape the desert heat.
McCormick Ranch benefits from immediate proximity to the HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea Medical Center, a world-class healthcare facility located just one mile from many community residences. This comprehensive medical campus features specialists in virtually every medical discipline, emergency services, and advanced diagnostic capabilities.
The 2% of McCormick Ranch’s total acreage dedicated to the HonorHealth campus ensures that residents have convenient access to exceptional healthcare services, while the surrounding medical specialists and support services create a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem.
The community’s strategic location and mature development have attracted numerous professional services, making it convenient for residents to access legal, financial, and business services without traveling far from home. The 18% of the community dedicated to commercial development includes office buildings, professional services, and business centers that serve both the local community and the broader Scottsdale area.
McCormick Ranch’s position in Central Scottsdale provides exceptional connectivity throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area. The community is strategically located just west of the 101 Freeway, providing direct access to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (15 miles), Downtown Phoenix (20 miles), and destinations throughout the Valley.
Scottsdale Road, Hayden Road, Shea Boulevard, and Indian Bend Road form the community’s boundaries while providing excellent access to employment centers, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities throughout Greater Phoenix.
McCormick Ranch features extensive public bus routes running through many of the major streets, providing convenient access to regional destinations. The community’s extensive bicycle path network and connections to the broader Scottsdale trail system offer environmentally friendly transportation alternatives for both recreation and commuting.
The Scottsdale Trolley system provides additional connectivity to Old Town Scottsdale and other popular destinations, while the community’s pedestrian-friendly design encourages walking for both transportation and exercise.
The McCormick Ranch Property Owners’ Association (MRPOA), incorporated on September 21, 1972, serves as the community’s governing body dedicated to maintaining the Ranch’s exceptional standards and character. Under the leadership of an executive director and elected board of directors, the MRPOA works diligently to preserve the community’s fresh image and ensure that residents can proudly say, “We live on McCormick Ranch.”
The association’s Architectural Control Committee plays a crucial role in maintaining the community’s distinctive character while allowing for appropriate renovations and improvements that meet contemporary living needs. The committee emphasizes proportion and timeless design elements that will remain relevant for the next 50 years, avoiding frivolous details that follow temporary trends.
The MRPOA’s minimal annual assessment of $260 covers landscaping maintenance, clubhouse and pool amenities, tennis facilities, and the administration necessary to maintain the community’s high standards. This cost-effective approach to community management has contributed to McCormick Ranch’s long-term success and property value preservation.
McCormick Ranch’s governance structure reflects a long-term view that considers the community’s health and viability for generations to come. The strategic planning process, updated regularly to ensure the Ranch’s continued vitality, focuses on maintaining the essence that has made McCormick Ranch an exceptional place to live while adapting to changing demographics and lifestyle preferences.
McCormick Ranch represents more than just a place to live—it embodies over 50 years of thoughtful community development, environmental stewardship, and quality of life excellence. From the innovative Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt system to the championship golf courses designed by Desmond Muirhead, every aspect of this community reflects careful planning and attention to detail.
Whether you’re drawn to waterfront living around the community’s seven man-made lakes, golf course properties with views of the Palm and Pine Courses, or family-friendly neighborhoods with easy access to top-rated Scottsdale Unified schools, McCormick Ranch offers housing options to suit every lifestyle preference and life stage.
The community’s mature landscaping, extensive recreational amenities, and central Scottsdale location create a unique living environment that combines the tranquility of a resort setting with the convenience of urban amenities. The over 25 miles of bicycle paths, numerous parks, and connections to the broader Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt system provide endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and active living.
As your trusted real estate advisor with West USA Realty, I invite you to discover why McCormick Ranch continues to be one of Scottsdale’s most sought-after addresses. From its pioneering role as Scottsdale’s first master-planned community to its current status as a mature, thriving neighborhood with 24,000 residents, McCormick Ranch offers a proven track record of community excellence and property value preservation.
Ready to explore the exceptional lifestyle opportunities in McCormick Ranch? Contact Carl Chapman at 602-617-4440 to schedule your private tour and discover why this historic community continues to attract new generations of residents while maintaining the character and quality that have defined it for over five decades.
McCormick Ranch offers diverse housing options, with properties constructed by renowned builders like Presley Homes and Continental Homes. Single-family residences in McCormick Ranch currently range from the mid $600,000s to over $2 million for luxury estates. The average price per square foot in McCormick Ranch hovers around $375, reflecting the area's premium positioning. Market trends show consistent appreciation, with property values increasing approximately 5-7% annually over the past five years. Housing options include everything from charming garden homes to expansive lakefront estates with private boat docks. Current inventory typically includes 30-40 active listings, with homes spending an average of 45 days on market. The community's established reputation and prime location continue to drive strong buyer demand throughout all market cycles.
McCormick Ranch students attend highly-rated schools within the Scottsdale Unified School District, known for its academic excellence. Cochise Elementary School and Cocopah Middle School serve the community with exceptional programs and dedicated teaching staff. The nearby Saguaro High School offers International Baccalaureate programs and maintains consistently high academic performance ratings. Several prestigious private schools, including Notre Dame Preparatory and El Dorado Private School, provide additional educational options. The community's central location provides easy access to supplemental education resources, including the Sylvan Learning Center. Local schools consistently rank among Arizona's top performers in standardized testing and college preparation programs.
McCormick Ranch Golf Club features two championship 18-hole courses, offering challenging play amid stunning desert and mountain views. The community boasts twelve tennis courts, multiple community pools, and state-of-the-art fitness facilities available to residents. Two man-made lakes, Lake Margherite and Lake Angela, provide opportunities for fishing, sailing, and waterfront recreation. The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park offers unique entertainment with its vintage train rides and railroad museum. Miles of paved pathways connect various neighborhoods, perfect for morning jogs or evening bike rides. The McCormick Ranch Property Owners' Association maintains several private parks and green spaces exclusively for residents.
The McCormick Ranch Shopping Center serves as a central hub, featuring boutique retailers and essential services. Nearby Scottsdale Fashion Square, Arizona's premier shopping destination, offers over 200 luxury retailers just minutes away. Local dining favorites include Fleming's Prime Steakhouse, Butterfield's Pancake House, and Chart House with its lakeside views. The McCormick Ranch area hosts numerous art galleries, showcasing works from local and international artists. Entertainment options include the nearby McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park's concert series and seasonal events. The community's location provides easy access to Old Town Scottsdale's vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions.
Major arterial roads like Via de Ventura and McCormick Parkway provide convenient access throughout the community. The Loop 101 Freeway sits just minutes away, offering quick connections to Phoenix, Sky Harbor International Airport. Typical commute times to downtown Phoenix average 25-30 minutes during peak traffic hours. The community's central location puts residents within 15 minutes of Old Town Scottsdale and the Scottsdale Airpark. Valley Metro bus services connect McCormick Ranch to greater Phoenix, with several stops throughout the community. The extensive network of bike paths makes eco-friendly transportation a viable option for local trips.
McCormick Ranch maintains lower crime rates than surrounding areas, thanks to active community involvement and regular patrols. The Scottsdale Police Department's response times average under five minutes for emergency calls within the community. Neighborhood watch programs operate throughout McCormick Ranch, coordinating closely with local law enforcement agencies. The community's well-lit streets, gated sections, and 24-hour security patrols contribute to resident safety. Emergency services, including fire stations and medical response units, maintain strategic locations throughout the area. The McCormick Ranch Property Owners' Association actively monitors security concerns and implements preventive measures.
HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea Medical Center, a full-service hospital, sits just minutes from McCormick Ranch. Several urgent care facilities, including NextCare and FastMed, provide convenient medical care for non-emergency situations. The area hosts numerous medical specialists, from pediatricians to geriatric care providers, within close proximity. Mayo Clinic Scottsdale, renowned for exceptional healthcare, operates just a short drive from the community. Mental health services and wellness centers offer comprehensive care options for residents seeking holistic health solutions. Emergency response times for medical services average under four minutes, exceeding regional standards.
The Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt offers miles of walking and biking trails connecting McCormick Ranch to neighboring communities. Camelback Mountain and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve provide exceptional hiking opportunities within a short drive. Residents enjoy year-round outdoor activities thanks to Arizona's abundant sunshine and mild winter temperatures. The community's lakes host regular fishing tournaments and provide peaceful settings for kayaking and paddleboarding. Local parks feature well-maintained playground equipment, basketball courts, and picnic areas for family gatherings. The nearby Desert Botanical Garden showcases the region's unique flora and offers educational programs.
The McCormick Ranch Property Owners' Association organizes regular community events, fostering neighborhood connections and civic engagement. Annual traditions include the Summer Concert Series, Holiday Lights Festival, and Spring Art Walk. The community supports various social clubs, from book discussions to golf leagues, encouraging resident interaction. Regular farmers' markets bring fresh, local produce and artisanal goods to the neighborhood throughout the year. Volunteer opportunities abound through local organizations, including the McCormick Ranch Community Foundation and environmental initiatives. The active homeowners' association maintains high community standards while organizing social events and improvement projects.
McCormick Ranch enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, with winter temperatures rarely dropping below 40 degrees. Summer temperatures typically range from 90 to 105 degrees, moderated by low humidity and evening breezes. The desert climate creates perfect conditions for golf, tennis, and other outdoor activities nearly year-round. Annual rainfall averages just eight inches, primarily during the summer monsoon season from July to September. The area's climate zone supports drought-resistant landscaping and reduces overall maintenance requirements for homeowners. Evening temperatures often drop 20-30 degrees, creating comfortable conditions for outdoor dining and entertainment.
McCormick Ranch maintains strict zoning regulations to preserve property values and community aesthetics over time. The architectural review committee ensures all exterior modifications align with established community standards and guidelines. Current development plans focus on modernizing existing facilities while preserving the community's original character and charm. The area sits outside major flood zones, with well-designed drainage systems managing occasional heavy rainfall. Building codes reflect modern safety standards while accommodating the region's unique environmental conditions. The community's emergency preparedness plan addresses potential natural hazards common to the desert Southwest.
Major employers near McCormick Ranch include Honor Health, Scottsdale Unified School District, and numerous technology companies. The nearby Scottsdale Airpark houses over 2,500 businesses, providing extensive employment opportunities within minutes of home. The local unemployment rate consistently remains below both state and national averages, reflecting a robust job market. The Scottsdale area continues attracting new businesses, particularly in healthcare, technology, and tourism sectors. Economic indicators suggest sustained growth, with new commercial developments planned for surrounding areas. The community's location provides easy access to multiple business districts throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Property taxes in McCormick Ranch remain competitive with similar luxury communities in the Scottsdale area. The current HOA fees cover extensive community amenities, including maintenance of common areas and security services. Utility costs typically run lower than national averages due to energy-efficient building practices and solar options. The community's established infrastructure helps control long-term maintenance costs for both individual homeowners and the association. Insurance rates benefit from excellent safety ratings and well-maintained properties throughout the development. The area's strong property values and consistent appreciation make McCormick Ranch an attractive long-term investment.
The City of Scottsdale provides responsive governance through its council-manager form of government, maintaining high service standards. Municipal services include weekly trash collection, comprehensive recycling programs, and regular street maintenance throughout the community. The city's planning department actively involves residents in decisions affecting McCormick Ranch's future development and growth. Local officials maintain open communication channels with the community through regular town halls and online platforms. The city's commitment to environmental sustainability aligns with McCormick Ranch's green initiatives and conservation efforts. Public works projects receive priority attention, ensuring infrastructure remains current with community needs.